Strengthening Patient Recovery: The Vital Connection Between Personal Injury Attorneys and Medical Providers

/in , , /by

In the complex world of personal injury cases, seamless coordination of care between medical providers and personal injury attorneys is paramount, especially given the data that reveals 62 million people sought medical treatment for injuries.The well-being and recovery of the injured individual hinges on this collaboration, making it a crucial element in the pursuit of justice and healing. At Ross Moore Law in Atlanta, GA, we understand the pivotal role that coordination plays. In this blog post, we’ll explore why it’s vital to coordinate care between personal injury attorneys and medical providers and how having a dedicated personal injury attorney who holds patients accountable to their treatment plan can alleviate stress for all parties involved.

The Importance of Coordinating Care for Personal Injury Patients

1. Optimizing Patient Outcomes:

   Coordinating care between personal injury attorneys and medical providers is essential for achieving the best possible outcomes for patients. In personal injury cases, injuries can be severe and multifaceted. When healthcare providers and attorneys work in tandem, the patient receives a comprehensive approach to care that addresses both medical and legal aspects, leading to quicker and more complete recoveries.

2. Minimizing Legal Complications:

   Personal injury cases often require medical evidence to substantiate claims. By coordinating care and sharing medical records and documentation with attorneys, medical providers help build a strong case for their patients. This collaboration reduces the likelihood of legal complications and ensures that the patient’s rights and interests are protected.

3. Enhancing Efficiency:

   Effective communication and coordination between medical providers and personal injury attorneys streamlines the entire process. This means less administrative burden, fewer redundant tasks, and a more efficient approach to patient care and legal proceedings. Medical providers can focus on their expertise, and attorneys can handle the legal intricacies.

4. Facilitating Accountability:

   Personal injury attorneys help hold patients accountable to their medical treatment plans. This accountability ensures that patients actively participate in their recovery and follow their prescribed treatments. When patients are committed to their treatment plans, they are more likely to achieve better results, which benefits both their health and their legal case.

How Partnering with a Personal Injury Attorney Alleviates Stress for All Parties

1. Securing Adherence to Treatment Plans: 

Personal injury attorneys, such as those at Ross Moore Law, are committed to supporting patients in following their prescribed treatment plans. This collaborative approach helps ease the burden on medical providers, providing them with the assurance that their recommendations will be conscientiously followed, ultimately leading to enhanced patient outcomes.

2. Effective Communication:

   Attorneys act as intermediaries, facilitating communication between medical providers and patients. This ensures that important information, such as updates on treatment progress or any complications, is relayed efficiently, leading to a smoother patient journey.

3. Managing Legal Complexities:

   Personal injury cases can be legally complex, but attorneys are well-equipped to navigate the intricacies. This expertise takes the burden off medical providers, allowing them to focus solely on patient care, without the added stress of legal matters.

4. Advocating for Fair Compensation:

   Personal injury attorneys are advocates for their clients, working tirelessly to secure fair compensation for their injuries. This includes ensuring that medical bills are covered and that medical providers are appropriately compensated for their services. Medical providers can rest assured that their interests are protected.

Pros and Cons of Coordinating Care Between Personal Injury Attorneys and Medical Providers

Pros:

1. Enhanced Patient Outcomes: Coordinating care can improve patient outcomes by aligning medical and legal efforts, reducing no-show rates, which typically average 10.4%, and increasing patient compliance, which is typically less than 45%  

2. Efficiency: Streamlined processes reduce administrative burdens and optimize resource allocation.

3. Accountability: Patients are more likely to adhere to treatment plans when held accountable by personal injury attorneys, resulting in improved health.

4. Legal Support: Medical providers receive legal support, reducing the risk of legal complications.

5. Fair Compensation: Attorneys advocate for fair compensation, ensuring that medical bills are covered.

Cons:

1. Time-Consuming: Coordinating care may require additional time and effort from medical providers and attorneys.

2. Communication Challenges: Effective communication between parties can be challenging but is essential for success. Physicians who communicate well have a 19% higher rate of adherence.

3. Potential Conflicts: Differences in priorities between medical and legal teams may lead to conflicts.

Coordinating care between personal injury attorneys and medical providers is not just essential; it’s a synergistic partnership that benefits patients, medical professionals, and legal teams alike. Patients receive comprehensive care that addresses their medical and legal needs, leading to better outcomes. Medical providers can focus on their expertise while attorneys handle the legal complexities, resulting in reduced stress for all parties involved.

At Ross Moore Law, we believe that the coordinated care of personal injury patients is not just a legal necessity but a moral imperative. We are dedicated to working closely with medical providers in Atlanta, GA, to ensure that patients receive the comprehensive care they deserve.

If you are a medical provider, we invite you to join us in this collaborative effort to enhance patient outcomes, reduce legal complications, and alleviate stress for all parties involved. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of personal injury patients, helping them on their journey to recovery.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can work together to coordinate care and support personal injury patients in Atlanta. Let’s strengthen the bond between medical providers and personal injury attorneys for the benefit of those who need it most. Together, we can achieve justice and healing.

Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Pursuing Fair Compensation

/in , , , , /by

Life is full of unexpected challenges, such as sustaining a traumatic brain injury (TBI) from an auto accident that permanently impacts your life.

The damages of a TBI are not always immediately noticeable and can manifest later in life during stressful situations. Clear signs like dilated pupils or physical issues are apparent, but symptoms like memory problems or headaches might come later, making it harder to diagnose.

Not only can a TBI impact your quality of life, but it can also impact your financial future. At Ross Moore Law, we understand how detrimental a traumatic brain injury can be on your life. While we can’t change what occurred, we can assist you in obtaining the financial stability you need to move forward in your life.

As mentioned, not all TBI symptoms show immediately. It’s imperative to seek professional medical attention after any impact involving your head.

Seeking Fair Compensation for a TBI


After an accident, insurance companies may offer you a settlement based on your perceived medical condition, not knowing the underlying issues that may arise later. Before negotiating with an insurance company for a medical settlement, contact an injury attorney at Ross Moore Law to guide you to ensure your condition is thoroughly evaluated.

Our team has extensive experience fighting for fair compensation for injuries resulting in a TBI. We have seen how these injuries can result in unexpected medical expenses, long-term therapy costs, loss of income, and logistical burdens.

Obtaining fair compensation for you isn’t just about financial restitution. It’s also knowing we can help you obtain financial stability enabling you to progress confidently in your journey forward.


If you have experienced a head injury or any of the mentioned symptoms, contact a concussion specialist as soon as possible to ensure your well-being; your health is the main priority.

Are you seeking a local personal injury lawyer? Our team at Ross Moore Law is eager to put our experience to work for you. Call us today or book a free consultation online.

Attorney Ross Moore and our personal injury team handle a wide range of personal injury cases, including:

Discover More on Personal Injury Topics: 

Can You Claim Compensation for Work-Related PTSD?

/in /by

Post-traumatic stress disorder is often an invisible illness, but one that can have a significant effect on your life, relationships, and work. Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a mental health condition caused by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic, terrifying, or distressing event and is considered a psychological injury. 

Experiencing a work-related traumatic event or injury can affect your daily life and ability to go to work. Your well-being as an employee is essential, and here at Ross Moore Law, our trusted legal team is here to fight for you. Read on to learn more about workplace PTSD.

What is Workplace PTSD?  

Workplace PTSD is when an employee encounters or witnesses a traumatic or distressing work-related event. Symptoms of workplace PTSD may occur soon or long after the traumatic event. These events could include robberies, severe injuries, fires, natural disasters, combat, sexual violence, or exposure to severe injuries or death.

Those suffering from workplace PTSD may experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Flashbacks to the traumatic event
  • Nightmares
  • Negative thoughts
  • Distressing mental images of the event
  • Inability to discuss the event
  • Isolation
  • Feeling emotionally numb
  • Avoiding people and places that remind you of the event
  • Becoming withdrawn
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Anxiety or inability to relax
  • Sweating
  • Feeling sick
  • High blood pressure
  • Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Heart attacks

Common Careers That Experience Work-Related PTSD 

Many different occupations and workplace accidents can result in PTSD, but some professions are at a higher risk for PTSD than others.

Military

PTSD is most commonly associated with those who have been in the military. Combat veterans experience PTSD in different ways and see symptoms at different rates. A history of combat is not the only factor that leads to PTSD, and many service members exhibit symptoms of PTSD from sexual harassment and assault during their time in the military. 

Law Enforcement

A regular day on the job for police officers involves potentially life-threatening situations, serious accidents, and stressful scenarios. Police officers often have PTSD caused by witnessing or experiencing traumatic events on the job. Many police departments have policies to help their officers seek therapy after a traumatic event. 

Healthcare Workers

Nurses, doctors, and hospital staff regularly face stressful situations and their patients’ severe conditions. Even more so for those in the emergency department or intensive care unit. These departments are where victims of assault, traumatic accidents, or near-death experiences go for care, which can significantly impact the healthcare professionals working directly with them.

Emergency Medical Personnel

EMS personnel and ambulance workers are often some of the first people on the scene of an accident. In high-stress situations where people are in life-or-death cases, they must act quickly and professionally. According to Dr. Raul J. Rodriguez, as many as 20% of EMS personnel suffer from workplace PTSD.

Firefighters

Firefighters deal with life-threatening fires and are first responders to car wrecks, natural disasters, and significant accidents, among many more. Life as a firefighter comes with daily stress, from situations threatening their safety to helping protect others when a catastrophe occurs.

Professional Drivers

Professional or truck drivers may not be the first occupation you consider regarding PTSD, but they may encounter many traumatic events. Whether it’s an accident their vehicle is involved in or witnessing a traumatic accident, it can be challenging to get back in the driver’s seat without symptoms of PTSD.

When Your Employer Is Liable For Compensation    

Your employer owes you a duty of care while you’re at work. If your employer fails to take precautions to mitigate risk, explain how to control the risks, educate you and your colleagues on preventing danger, or provide and maintain the proper tools, they could breach their duty of care.

If you develop symptoms of PTSD after a traumatic accident or incident at your workplace due to a breach of duty of care, you may be able to file a claim against your employer. 

Contact Ross Moore Law Today! 

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a severe mental condition, and when a workplace accident is the culprit, you deserve compensation for your pain and suffering. A traumatic event can happen at work, no matter your occupation, so let the trusted legal team here at Ross Moore Law fight for you. 

Are you looking for a local personal injury attorney to handle your case? Our team at Ross Moore Law is eager to put our experience to work for you. Call us today or book a free consultation online! 

Conveniently located in the heart of Atlanta, GA, we proudly serve clients throughout the surrounding areas of Athens, Alpharetta, Peachtree Corners, Marietta, and more! In addition to Georgia clients, we welcome Tennessee clients as well! Get in touch today.

The Attorneys at Ross Moore Law handle a wide range of individual injury cases, including:

Discover More On Auto Accident Topics: 

View More Helpful Blogs

Message Us | Visit Us

Handling Insurance Companies: Policy Limits In a Car Accident Case

/in , , , /by

In car accident cases, policy limits are crucial in determining the maximum compensation an insurance policy will cover for damages and injuries. Every insurance policy has specific limits that set the boundary for the maximum payout an insurance company will provide to the injured party or parties involved in the accident.

Policy limits are essential for the insurance company and the insured individual as they are protective measures. By establishing these limits, insurance companies ensure they are not held responsible for unlimited damages, thus managing their financial risk.

After a car accident, the injured party can file a claim with the insurance provider of the responsible driver. The Insurance policy limits specify the maximum compensation that can be obtained. These limits greatly influence the negotiation process between the injured party and the insurance company.

And as for the result, policy limits can vary depending on the type of insurance coverage an individual has. For example, limitations may be set in liability, meaning how much the insurance will cover. This will vary, for Example: per person injured and per accident. This means that each injured individual can receive maximum compensation and a total amount that can be paid to all injured parties.

Understanding policy limits is crucial as it directly affects the compensation that can be recovered in a car accident case. If the damages and injuries exceed the policy limits, the injured party may be responsible for covering the additional expenses not covered by the insurance company. Therefore, it is advisable to regularly review and assess insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage in an accident.

In certain unfortunate situations, when the damages and injuries sustained in a car accident can surpass the policy limits, the injured party may consider other legal options to seek additional compensation. This can involve filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver to recover damages that exceed the insurance policy limits.

Policy limits also impact the decision-making process for settling a car accident claim. If the damages are close to or exceed the policy limits, the insurance company may be more inclined to settle the claim to avoid potential litigation and additional financial liability.

Policy Limits For The “At-Fault Driver”

In the case of being the “at-fault driver” party, it is essential to consult a Personal Injury Lawyer since, based on our experience, there are many cases where it is not 100% clear who is the faulty driver, and insurance companies may use this confusion to take advantage of both parties involve and avoid proper compensation.

Individuals need to review and understand their insurance policy limits to ensure they have adequate coverage in the event of an accident. It is essential to consult an insurance professional to determine the appropriate policy limits based on individual circumstances and needs. At Ross Moore Law, we consider every aspect of your particular case fighting for you in the courtroom and handling the insurance companies on your behalf.

To navigate the complexities of policy limits and ensure fair compensation, seeking the advice of a Personal Injury Lawyer is highly recommended. These legal professionals specialize in car accident cases and can evaluate policy limits, negotiate with insurance companies, and explore all available options to pursue maximum compensation.

In summary, policy limits in car accident cases determine the maximum compensation an insurance policy will cover for damages and injuries. 

Understanding these limits is crucial for the insured and injured parties to ensure they receive the appropriate compensation and protection in the aftermath of an accident. Contact us today if you or your family were involved in a car accident. Our team at Ross Moore Law is eager to put our experience to work for you. Call us today or book a free consultation online! 

The Attorneys at Ross Moore Law handle a wide range of individual injury cases, including:

Discover More on Car Accidents: 

Highway Hypnosis: How to Avoid “White Line Fever”

/in , /by

Have you ever been driving and went through an intersection only to ask yourself if it was actually green? Or have you been driving long distances and feel yourself zone out? If you relate to either of those scenarios, you’ve likely experienced “highway hypnosis.” 

If you or a loved one were in an accident due to another driver’s highway hypnosis, Ross Moore Law is here to fight for you. Keep reading to learn more.

Causes of Highway Hypnosis     

Highway hypnosis happens when our body goes into autopilot. Driving becomes something our body knows how to do automatically, so we can easily slip into the mindset of driving without thinking about it. This is known as automaticity.

Automaticity is different from distracted driving. Highway hypnosis isn’t something drivers are aware of until something on the road snaps them out of it. Distracted drivers are consciously engaging in a distraction such as texting, eating, or looking at their directions.

It is most often occurs while driving long distances. Long stretches of road can begin to feel monotonous, causing you to zone out and go into autopilot mode. Highway hypnosis is also known as “white line fever” because of how the never-ending white line of the highway can put you into a trance. 

Furthermore, it can also occur when you’re driving the same route day after day. This may be your work commute, drive to school, or any other route that you drive regularly. These routes become so familiar that it’s easy to zone out and allow your mind to drift away from your driving. You can also experience highway hypnosis because of boredom, fatigue, or stress. 

Signs and Symptoms of Highway Hypnosis    

While your eyes are open and you’re conscious during highway hypnosis, your brain drifts away from awareness during your drive. Highway hypnosis comes with many signs and symptoms, including:

–       Drowsiness

–       Fatigue

–       Lack of attention 

–       Losing focus

–       Unable to recall certain details about your drive

–       Feeling detached

–       Trouble remembering parts of your drive 

How to Avoid Highway “White Line Fever”       

Even on a long drive, this behavior is avoidable. It’s important to stay aware and remember to focus. Here are some ways to keep yourself safe on the road and avoid highway hypnosis:

–       Get a good night’s sleep: Starting off your drive well rested will help you avoid feeling drowsy on the road.

–       Take breaks: Trying to complete your drive in one continuous ride can lead to highway hypnosis. Take a few breaks to give your mind a rest and help you avoid zoning out with “white line fever.”

–       Opt for some caffeine: Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea to give yourself a boost and help you stay alert.

–       Stay hydrated: Staying hydrated actually helps your brain concentrate and stay focused while driving. Plus, taking a restroom break is a good way to stop and stretch your legs at a rest stop before continuing your drive.

–       Change up your music: Having a dynamic playlist with fun, upbeat music can pull your mind out of it. A change up in sound can help your brain stay alert and keep you from drifting off during your drive.

–       Try to do most of your driving during the day: Driving at night can increase your risk of highway hypnosis as it’s natural for your brain to feel drowsier as the sun goes down. Driving in the daylight helps your brain feel more alert and better see your surroundings.

–       Maintain good posture while driving: Having good driving posture helps minimize fatigue and reduce pain. 

Contact Ross Moore Law Today! 

Highway hypnosis is unfortunately common and can result in a serious car accident. In the event that you’ve been in an accident caused by a driver’s highway hypnosis, our talented attorneys at Ross Moore Law will fight for you and help you get the compensation you deserve.

Looking for a local personal injury attorney to handle your case? Our team at Ross Moore Law is eager to put our experience to work for you. Call us today or book a free consultation online! 

Conveniently located in the heart of Atlanta, GA, we are proud to serve clients throughout the surrounding areas of Athens, Alpharetta, Peachtree Corners, Marietta and more! In addition to Georgia clients, we welcome Tennessee clients as well! Get in touch today.

Attorney Ross Moore and our personal injury team handle a wide range of personal injury cases, including:

View All Our Practice Areas

Discover More on Personal Injury Topics: 

View More Helpful Blogs

Message Us | Visit Us

Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents

/in , /by

We’re all busy people relying on our cars to quickly get us from one destination to another. Unfortunately, rear-end accidents are a common occurrence and can happen for a number of reasons. If you’ve been rear-ended on any of our busy Atlanta-area roads, our dedicated team at Ross Moore Law is here for you.

Keep reading to learn more about rear-end accidents and how we can help. 

The Basics of Rear-End Accidents     

Rear-end collisions occur when a vehicle collides with the rear end of the vehicle in front of them. These accidents range from being very minor to extremely serious. A rear-end accident can be caused by a number of different factors, including:

–       Distracted driving

–       Tailgating

–       Icy or wet roads

–       Quick stops from the vehicle in front

–       Speeding

–       Not obeying other traffic laws

–       Reckless driving

–       Driver error

If you’ve been rear-ended, typically the fault falls on the driver who hit the rear of your vehicle. This is the case in most rear-end collisions, but there can be some exceptions depending on the case. It is a driver’s duty to maintain proper following distance while on the road, and if they fail to do that, a rear-end accident can be the consequence of their negligence.  

Injuries Resulting from Rear-End Accidents     

Injuries from a rear-end collision can be very minor or very serious depending on the severity of your accident. Here are some of the most common injuries that are a result of a rear-end accident:

Whiplash

Whiplash occurs when your head gets thrust forward then immediately backward. It can cause nerve, tendon, muscle, and spinal damage, as well as a concussion. Sometimes whiplash symptoms take a few days to show up, and you may experience symptoms such as headaches, shoulder, arm, or upper back pain, numbness or tingling in your arms, loss of range of motion in your neck, or pain and stiffness in your neck.

Back and spinal injuries

A rear-end collision can cause back strains, sprains, herniated discs, or spinal fractures. Back strains are typically a pulled, twisted, or torn muscle or tendon, whereas a back sprain is an overstretched or torn ligament. Herniated discs are caused by the force of the collision causing a spinal disc to become compressed or dislocated. Spinal fractures are the more severe outcome and are typically treated by wearing a brace or surgery. 

Head injuries

A rear-end collision can also cause minor head injuries or traumatic brain injuries. A concussion can occur from being struck by unsecured objects, airbags, or by hitting your head on any part of your vehicle. You may experience loss of consciousness, lacerations, bruising, or swelling. If you do get a concussion, you may have symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, memory loss, extreme fatigue, or impaired cognitive function. Symptoms of a concussion may not show up immediately.

Fractured limbs

Broken bones are also common in rear-end accidents. Toes, wrists, hands, feet, arms, legs, ribs, and even hips can become fractured in a rear-end collision, depending on the severity of your accident. 

Facial or eye injuries

Being rear-ended can result in your head striking your steering wheel, enduring the impact of your airbags, or being cut or scratched by fragmented or broken glass. Any of these scenarios can result in a face or eye injury. 

Burns

Airbag deployment can cause burns on your arms or face from the impact. A dangerous rear-end accident could also end in a fire caused by fuel or other flammable liquids from any vehicle involved.

How to Avoid Rear-End Accidents       

When traveling on the road, stay alert. Be aware of what the vehicle in front of you is doing and keep an eye out for changes in traffic like a lane ending or traffic merging into one lane due to an accident. Always watch out for brake lights and traffic slowing, and gently apply your brakes when stopping to help vehicles behind you anticipate what is going to happen. 

One of the top causes of rear-end accidents is following too close. Be sure to leave ample distance between you and the vehicle in front of you to make sure you have plenty of time to stop. You’ll want to have enough room to safely stop your vehicle in the event that you have to quickly brake in traffic.

It’s important to use your signals correctly to communicate your next move and allow other drivers to anticipate your movement. Also, make sure your turn signals, headlights, and brake lights are in working order to keep yourself and other drivers safe. 

Avoid getting boxed in by other drivers and always have an escape route to be able to move your vehicle if the car behind you fails to stop. To do this, keep from driving “with the pack” if you can help it. Do your best to anticipate the moves of other drivers by having your mirrors in the right spot so you can check them frequently and stay aware of your surroundings.

Contact Ross Moore Law Today! 

Rear-end accidents are common, especially with the fast pace at which we move through our metro-Atlanta roads. If you or a loved one has been in a rear-end accident, call on the trusted Atlanta-area legal team at Ross Moore Law today!

Looking for a local personal injury attorney to handle your case? Our team at Ross Moore Law is eager to put our experience to work for you. Call us today or book a free consultation online! 

Conveniently located in the heart of Atlanta, GA, we are proud to serve clients throughout the surrounding areas of Athens, Alpharetta, Peachtree Corners, Marietta and more! In addition to Georgia clients, we welcome Tennessee clients as well! Get in touch today.

Attorney Ross Moore and our personal injury team handle a wide range of personal injury cases, including:

View All Our Practice Areas

Discover More on Personal Injury Topics: 

View More Helpful Blogs

Message Us | Visit Us

What is a Contingency Fee Agreement in a Personal Injury Case?

/in /by

After you’ve been in an accident, paying for an attorney on top of your already existing medical bills may seem daunting. This is where a contingency fee agreement can be beneficial. At Ross Moore Law, our metro-Atlanta legal team understands the financial challenges that come with recovering from an accident, and we’re here to help.

Keep reading to learn more about contingency fee agreements and how they can be beneficial to your personal injury case.

What is a Contingency Fee Agreement? 

A contingency fee agreement is an arrangement made between you and your lawyer where you will only pay attorney’s fees if your attorney successfully resolves your case. Upon receiving a settlement, your payment will come out of the amount you were compensated for damages. Typically, the fee amount is a fixed percentage of your compensation that is discussed and agreed upon prior to the case. 

Therefore, if you’re not awarded a settlement, neither you nor your attorney will receive any money. You may still be responsible for court filing fees or other charges, despite the outcome of the case. 

How Do Contingency Fee Agreements Work in a Personal Injury Case? 

If you and your attorney enter a contingency fee agreement, they will foot the bill for the costs needed to build your case, such as copies of medical records and accident reports or witness depositions. Your agreement will outline the payment amount your lawyer receives following the success of your case.

Furthermore, there are three different types of fees, and which types are used can vary based on your case’s individual details. A fixed percentage contingency fee is when the percentage of your settlement paid to your attorney is agreed upon in the beginning and does not change at any point during your case.

Moreover, a sliding scale contingency fee is when the percentage of payment may increase depending on any additional resources or time needed and what stage your case is at. For example, if your case goes to trial instead of being settled without a trial, your attorney may use a sliding scale system due to extra time spent on your case in court.

Lastly, a partial contingency fee is where you and your attorney agree upon a partial payment toward legal fees upfront and a contingency fee to be paid once you are rewarded your settlement. Since you would be paying a partial payment upfront, your contingency fee will most likely be lower because part of your payment went toward the attorney’s fees.

Advantages of Contingency Fee Agreements        

Contingency fee agreements are the perfect fit for some cases. The main draw of a contingency fee agreement is that you don’t owe any money upfront, and if you lose the case, you won’t have to pay your attorney for the time spent and work done on your case.

Besides, since you’re not having to worry about every penny going in, this will allow your lawyer to take every step they can to win your case that would be costly for you without a contingency fee agreement. This includes subpoenas and depositions to help advance your case. 

Contact Ross Moore Law Today! 

Contingency fee agreements are helpful for those who need legal representation but may have financial constraints. At Ross Moore Law, we’re here to fight for your personal injury case and help determine if a contingency fee agreement is right for you. Our Atlanta-area lawyers are here for you!

Undoubtedly, if you looking for a local personal injury attorney to handle your case? Our team at Ross Moore Law is eager to put our experience to work for you. Call us today or book a free consultation online! 

Lastly, conveniently located in the heart of Atlanta, GA, we are proud to serve clients throughout the surrounding areas of Athens, Alpharetta, Peachtree Corners, Marietta and more! In addition to Georgia clients, we welcome Tennessee clients as well! Get in touch today.

Attorney Ross Moore and our personal injury team handle a wide range of personal injury cases, including:

View All Our Practice Areas

Discover More on Personal Injury Topics: 

View More Helpful Blogs

Message Us | Visit Us

Pedestrian Safety in Atlanta, Georgia

/in , , /by

It’s no secret that we have busy, congested roads here in Atlanta. Even with so many cars on the road, there’s still a large number of pedestrians, especially the closer you get to the city. Pedestrians and drivers have rules of the road to follow, so it’s important to know pedestrian safety laws and how you can help each other stay safe.

Read on to learn more about pedestrian safety and how Ross Moore Law can help.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics in Atlanta   

From 2016 to 2020, metro-Atlanta was the 27th most dangerous region for pedestrians in the country. Over the last five years, pedestrian accidents in the Atlanta area have increased by 60%. Despite having less vehicles on the road in 2020, pedestrian accident fatality rates actually rose to 21%, showing a lower number of vehicles on the road doesn’t seem to help the rate of fatal pedestrian accidents.

Many pedestrian accidents occur in Atlanta due to the use of mobile devices by both drivers and pedestrians. This unsafe use of cell phones has led to unaware or distracted pedestrians and drivers not watching out for one another.

One of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents in Atlanta is pedestrians failing to yield to the right of way. Many pedestrians enter an intersection without realizing the vehicles have the right of way. 

Pedestrian Safety Laws in Georgia    

The Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety has specific laws laid out for the safety of pedestrians and drivers alike. 

If you are crossing a roadway at any point other than a marked crosswalk at an intersection, you are required by law to yield the right of way to all vehicles unless you’ve already entered the roadway under safe conditions. 

If you’re crossing at an intersection where traffic-control signals are in use, you must cross within the marked crosswalks. If the intersection involves a diagonal crosswalk, you must not cross unless the traffic-control signals have indicated permission to cross.

If the road or intersection has a pedestrian bridge overhead or a pedestrian tunnel and you choose to use the road to cross instead, you must yield to the vehicles in the roadway. You do not have the right-of-way as the pedestrian.  

Common Pedestrian Injuries in Accidents      

There are a few different scenarios where a pedestrian accident can occur. As a driver, it’s important to always be on the lookout for pedestrians, and for moving vehicles, as a pedestrian. Pedestrians can suffer from injuries ranging from very minor to severe.

Soft tissue damage

Soft tissue damage is a common injury in pedestrian accidents. This type of damage can include contusions, strains, sprains, or more serious damage, such as tears, lacerations, and dislocations. Many of these injuries can heal pretty quickly, but they have potential to cause long-term damage.

Broken bones

Pedestrian accidents can often result in fractured fingers, hands, arms, legs, and even your back. Broken and fractured bones need immediate medical attention and can cause long-term effects.

Traumatic brain injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions are common in pedestrian accidents. One forceful blow to the head is all it takes, and TBIs can result in headaches, dizziness, loss of consciousness, mental health issues, difficulty concentrating, nausea, and vomiting, among other symptoms. 

Spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injuries are one of the more severe injuries that can occur from being struck by a vehicle in a pedestrian accident. Spinal cord injuries require long-term care and can cause paralysis or other life-altering effects.

Steps Pedestrians Can Take to Stay Safe

Your safety is top priority! Follow these steps to help you stay safe on the road while you’re on foot.

–       Carry a flashlight or wear reflective clothing to increase your visibility when walking at night.

–       Always cross the street at a designated crosswalk or intersection if possible.

–       Use a sidewalk or path whenever possible and always walk on the shoulder of the road facing traffic if a safer option isn’t available.

–       Stay alert and avoid using ear buds or electronic devices that can be a distraction or lower your awareness of traffic.

–       Walking while impaired can be dangerous, as alcohol or drug use can decrease coordination and judgment.

–       Don’t assume the other drivers can see you. It’s best to use caution while walking and make eye contact with drivers to make sure you’ve been seen. 

Steps Drivers Can Take to Keep Pedestrians Safe

Drivers can also help keep pedestrians safe and lower the risk of a pedestrian accident. When you’re in the driver’s seat, follow these steps to avoid an accident involving a pedestrian.

–       Look for pedestrians everywhere. They may be walking in an area you cannot see from inside your vehicle or be in a poorly lit area. 

–       Always stop or yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk.

–       If you encounter another vehicle stopped at a crosswalk, do not pass, and assume they are letting a pedestrian cross.

–       Stay alert in areas where children may be present, such as school zones and neighborhoods.

–       Slow down, closely follow the posted speed limit, and follow pedestrian safety laws set forth in your local area or state. 

What to Do If You’ve Been Injured in a Pedestrian Accident   

It’s important to know what to do if you’ve found yourself involved in a pedestrian accident. What you do immediately following your accident can help you in the long run.

Stay Calm and Identify Injuries

While staying calm doesn’t sound like it’d be an easy task, it’s important for your safety. Take a moment to determine if you have any injuries and evaluate whether or not you can move. If you are able to move, do your best to get out of the roadway. 

Call 911 

Once you’ve assessed whether or not you have any injuries, ask someone to call 911. There’s a good chance that a witness has already called but ask to make sure authorities are on their way. Even if you aren’t injured, you’ll need an official police report of the accident. Calling 911 will also prompt emergency services to respond to the accident and assess those involved. 

Get the Driver’s Information

Don’t let the driver leave the scene without getting their name, contact information, and license plate number. When speaking with the driver, do not discuss fault or apologize for anything. What you say can be used against you if the case goes to court. It’s best for everyone to stay on the scene for the police report to be taken. 

Document Evidence

Gather as much evidence as possible as soon as you can after the accident. Take pictures of the scene of the accident, the surrounding area, where the vehicle struck you, any injuries, and any speed signs or directional signs that could be used in your case. If there were any witnesses, get their contact information as well, as they could be called upon to testify in court.

In addition, keep the clothes you were wearing in the same condition they were in at the time of the accident. Your clothes could provide further evidence as to how you were hit by the vehicle. Also, write down everything you remember about the accident as soon as you can, so your memory of the accident doesn’t get clouded, and you won’t lose the small details that may be crucial.

Talk with Your Insurance Company

You will need to take a look at your own insurance policy and also be prepared to talk with the insurance company of the driver involved. You will be asked questions from both insurance companies, so answer truthfully, do not discuss fault, make definitive statements, sign any forms, or agree to a settlement without talking to an attorney.

Contact an Attorney

Getting the help of an experienced legal team, like Ross Moore Law, can help you in the event of a pedestrian accident. They can help you handle the insurance companies, advise you on what you should do or not do, file your case, and fight for you in court.

Contact Ross Moore Law Today! 

Being able to walk to your destination is a great perk, but it’s important to put safety first any time you’re a pedestrian. If you’re involved in a pedestrian accident, call on Ross Moore Law to fight for you in the courtroom. 

Looking for a local personal injury attorney to handle your case? Our team at Ross Moore Law is eager to put our experience to work for you. Call us today or book a free consultation online! 

Conveniently located in the heart of Atlanta, GA, we are proud to serve clients throughout the surrounding areas of Athens, Alpharetta, Peachtree Corners, Marietta and more! In addition to Georgia clients, we welcome Tennessee clients as well! Get in touch today.

Attorney Ross Moore and our personal injury team handle a wide range of personal injury cases, including:

View All Our Practice Areas

Discover More on Personal Injury Topics: 

View More Helpful Blogs

Message Us | Visit Us

Conveniently located in the heart of Atlanta, GA, we are proud to serve clients throughout the surrounding areas of Athens, Alpharetta, Peachtree Corners, Marietta and more! In addition to Georgia clients, we welcome Tennessee clients as well! Get in touch today.

The Impact of Lane Splitting in Motorcycle Accidents

/in , /by

While riding between lanes of vehicles may seem like an efficient way to avoid the endless Atlanta traffic, it puts motorcyclists at risk. This practice is not only dangerous, but against the law here in Georgia. Read on to learn more about lane splitting’s potential impact on your personal injury claim, and if you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident, contact Ross Moore Law today.

Cons of Lane Splitting     

Lane splitting is motorcyclists’ practice of riding between two lanes of stationary, or slower moving, vehicles. Often done to avoid traffic, lane splitting decreases drivers’ reaction times and can be particularly dangerous if they change lanes. 

Lane splitting not only threatens motorcycle riders’ safety but the outcome of their personal injury claim. Because it is illegal, motorcyclists who are injured while splitting lanes may be assigned the blame for the injuries that result. The insurance company will likely claim that the motorcyclist was acting recklessly, which may prevent them from receiving full compensation. 

Lane Splitting Laws in Georgia     

For personal injury cases, determining fault is a crucial step. Every motorist owes a duty of care to others sharing the road, meaning they will take “reasonable care” to avoid causing harm. This duty of care includes following the rules of the road – like the one that bans lane splitting. 

Because the Peach State observes a modified contributory fault law, motorcyclists found to be 50% or more at fault are not eligible to receive compensation. If their portion of the blame is less than 50%, however, damages will simply be reduced by the percentage of fault.

How Lane Splitting Can Affect a Personal Injury Claim        

As mentioned above, lane splitting can negatively affect your personal injury claim, especially if it contributed to your accident. Unless the motorcyclist is not assigned any blame at all, they will likely receive reduced damages – or in some cases, none at all. 

Contact Ross Moore Law Today! 

If you were injured in an accident while splitting lanes, contact our motorcycle accident attorneys today. After learning more about your accident, our team will advocate on your behalf, working to determine fault and calculate damages. Just because you were injured while splitting lanes, do not assume that there is no compensation available. 

Looking for a local personal injury attorney to handle your case? Let the trusted team at Ross

Moore Law put our experience to work for you! Call us today or book a free consultation online! 

Conveniently located in the heart of Atlanta, GA, we are proud to serve clients throughout the surrounding areas of Athens, Alpharetta, Peachtree Corners, Marietta and more! In addition to Georgia clients, we welcome Tennessee clients as well! Get in touch today.

Attorney Ross Moore and our personal injury team handle a wide range of personal injury cases, including:

View All Our Practice Areas

Discover More on Personal Injury Topics: 

View More Helpful Blogs

Message Us | Visit Us

Boating 101: What You Need to Know for Spring Break

/in , /by

Spring Break is loved by students and families alike, with many cramming the calendar with fun activities. Whether you’re heading out of town or sticking close to home, Spring Break is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the start of the season. Lake Lanier is a popular destination, with many locals flocking to its serene shore. But it’s important to remember that a day on the water can quickly become dangerous. Spring break boating accidents are all too common. Our boating accident lawyers know this all too well, so we’ve provided some tips below to help you stay safe during Spring Break.

Essential Boating Safety Tips    

Before leaving the dock, complete this checklist:

  • Make sure you have a properly fitting life jacket for every passenger. 
  • Check that your first aid kit is fully stocked.
  • Ensure that the boat’s lights, radio, fire extinguisher, and signaling device are in good working order.
  • Check fuel levels.
  • Consult the weather forecast to ensure inclement conditions are not expected.

Once you’re on the water, keep these tips in mind:

  • Follow all boating laws, including speed limits.
  • Never drink and drive.
  • Make sure passengers wear their life jackets at all times.
  • Be aware of other boats, tubers, or swimmers.
  • Assign someone to take over boat operation in case of an emergency.
  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

Taking a boating safety class is another great idea to avoid spring break boating accidents. Whether you’re still gaining experience at the helm or simply brushing up on the rules of the water, these courses help decrease your risk of a boating accident. 

Legal Requirements for Boating in Lake Lanier     

Boaters must meet the requirements outlined below:

  • Keep a type I, II, or III personal flotation device on board for each passenger. (Type IV required for 16- to 26-foot boats.)
  • Ensure people on personal watercraft and those under 13 wear their life jacket while on the water, even if the boat is not moving.
  • Take a DNR-approved boater education course (boaters born on or after January 1, 1998).
  • Never allow children under 12 to operate a vessel over 16 feet.
  • Do not operate personal vessels between sunset and sunrise.
  • Make sure the boat operator’s blood alcohol level does not exceed legal levels (.08).

Emergency Response and Rescue       

Despite following the tips outlined above, spring break accidents and boating injuries happen. If you are involved in a dangerous situation on Lake Lanier, take these steps immediately:

  1. Evaluate the situation.
  2. Call 911 and request emergency medical services if needed.
  3. Deploy distress signals (flags, flares, etc.) if necessary.
  4. Administer first aid while you wait for help to arrive.
  5. Take photos and videos of the accident scene if you can.
  6. If involved in a collision, exchange contact info with the other boater.
  7. Once help arrives, get the medical care you need.

Contact Ross Moore Law Today! 

If you have been injured in a boating accident, you need a qualified attorney on your side. Here at Ross Moore Law, our trusted team has experience handling cases like yours. Whether your boating accident occurred on Lake Lanier or another Georgia waterway, our personal injury attorneys are here to help. Call us today or book a free consultation online! 

Conveniently located in the heart of Atlanta, GA, we are proud to serve clients throughout the surrounding areas of Athens, Alpharetta, Peach Tree, Marietta and more! In addition to Georgia clients, we welcome Tennessee clients as well! Get in touch today.

Attorney Ross Moore and our personal injury team handle a wide range of personal injury cases, including:

View All Our Practice Areas

Discover More on Personal Injury Topics: 

Common Causes of Boating Accidents 

Do I Have a Legal Claim After a Boating Accident in Georgia?

Tips for Avoiding a Boating Accident in Georgia

View More Helpful Blogs

Message Us | Visit Us